Enhanced by Engineering: Evelyn Tey

CDI is proud of the amazing contributions of women engineers and women who support engineering departments globally across our organization and the various industrial markets we serve. The following interview is part of a two-part series profiling our team members as we recognize International Women in Engineering Day.

Q: When did you join CDI, and what is your job?

I joined CDI Products Singapore in 2018 as a senior costing executive in the engineering department. 

Q: What attracted you to CDI and the work you are currently doing for the engineering department?

I was impressed by CDI’s commitment to diversity and inclusion and saw it as a place where I could thrive. In my role, I am dedicated to generating the product costing and source for the material based on the specifications and requirements. In addition, I am responsible for creating the item numbers and product structures for new parts. 

 Q:. Can you tell us more about your team and some of the challenges you've encountered and overcome?

I work in a dynamic and collaborative environment where teamwork and innovation are at the forefront. One of the challenges we face as a custom manufacturer is the goal of reducing costs while maintaining product quality and fulfilling the requirements of customers in a competitive market. As a costing executive, achieving cost savings without sacrificing quality is a major priority of my role. This requires analyzing the manufacturing process and exploring alternative materials that allow us to achieve cost reductions while preserving product quality.

 Q: How would you describe the culture at CDI, particularly for women working with the engineering team?

Although I am the only woman among the six people in our engineering department, I don't feel I am being treated differently. Instead, I feel the teamwork and collaboration spirit, which motivates me to continue striving in this company.

 Q: What innovation trends or technologies related to your role are you excited about for the future, and why?

Digital transformation may impact the costing process, which enables the collection and aggregation of data from various sources within the organization, including production systems, supply chain networks, and financial records. This abundance of data could facilitate cost calculation.

BONUS: What advice would you have given your younger self about working in the manufacturing industry?

The manufacturing industry is dynamic and constantly evolving with new technologies, processes, and market trends. I would advise my younger self to always be continuously learning and growing, whether through education, training programs, or on-the-job experiences.